The Football Forecast

Emre Can – The next Liverpool Captain?

Is Emre Can showing he has what it takes to become the next Liverpool Captain? As Liverpool fans heap praise on ‘the real captain’

Off the back of a dramatic 2-1 win over Crystal palace that was settled late with a controversial 96th minute penalty from Cristian Benteke, it was evident that one player in particular had picked up all the plaudits.

Emre Can, isn’t a player known for skills or his prolific goal scoring, but the 22-year-old can be recently relied on for his work rate, leadership and all round dominant display in the defensive aspect of midfield. Just as he did at Manchester City in midweek against some of the worlds best talents with the likes of Fernandinho and David Silva, Emre Can showed his class against the experienced Mile Jedinak, with key tackles and interceptions breaking up play, helping Liverpool back onto the front foot.

Can showed yesterday lunchtime his improvement in a red shirt under Klopp, leading by example with his physical presence, well timed tackles and ability to out muscle his opponents off the ball. His passing was sharp and thoughtful, showing real character after the dismissal of James Milner, to dominate and control the tempo of the game. When the going gets tough, being a goal and a man down, some players tend to shy away, but Can showed his confidence and presence to rise to the challenge, which in effect was one of the main driving factors behind the thrilling comeback. The win over Palace puts Liverpool 7th position on 44 points with a game in hand over most, and only 6 points off a struggling Manchester City in 4th, potentially sparking Champions League hopes for the Reds.

It is apparent that Can has more to work on in the attacking aspect of his game, with only 2 goals in his 65 appearances at the club, but Liverpool fans remain optimistic. With age on his side and with the guidance of manager Jurgen Klopp, there is potential for Can to become a world class player and a cult hero for the fans to love and cherish. It is evident the he commands a real presence on the pitch and there is a sense that his fellow team mates have respect for the 6″0′ midfielder. The young German has also showed his diversity by playing at the right or centre of a back three since joining Liverpool, especially under ex-manager Brendan Rodgers and at times under the new management when the team is pushing for a win.

There have been recent question marks being raised over the performances of Jordan Henderson and his ability to lead with such a range of characters in the Liverpool squad, following the final whistle at Selhurst, we took a look at the reaction Can received from the media:

Emre Can is our best player by the way. Future captain. Future leader. Future legend.

Ultimately, time will tell in Emre’s Liverpool career if he ever gets the opportunity to take the famous armband, with Henderson earning respect and loyalty after his years of commitment and passion, deservedly following on as captain from club legend Steven Gerrard. It is clear that Can has all the attributes to take over from Jordan, but it will be interesting to see the changes that are made by Klopp in his first full season as Liverpool FC Manager.